Update on local MMA, boxing action

A short post today from the blog, after returning from vacation. One June 23, Mountain Force MMA had its Pat Reeves Fight Night MMA card in Logan. In a pro bout, Ogden's Dominic Gero scored a win. Another Ogden fighter, Joe Flores, won an amateur title fight and Ogden's Eric Munoz lost via decision in another amateur title bout. Full results are here.

In a SteelFist MMA card in Salt Lake City on June 29, Ben Moa, of One Hit MMA, successfully defended his SteelFist heavyweight professional title, In the co-main pro bout, returning LJ Schulz, of One Hit MMA, scored a win over veteran James Russell Francis, who announced his retirement after the bout. Amateur winners included Hayden Brown and Jordan Marshall. Full results are here.

At a Tuff N Uff card in Las Vegas on June 30, Destiny McCubbin came up short in a strawweight title bout, losing via third-round stoppage to undefeated Mandiau. This was an exciting that can be viewed on TuffNUff's Facebook page. After being rocked in the first round, McCubbin rallied in round 2. The third round was being fought on even term until McCubbin was floored by a shot from Mandiau. The fight was stopped shortly afterward, a decision many fans disagreed with.

Also, Steven Siler's next bout in the Professional Fighters League tournament is set. The pro MMA featherweight will meet Alexandre de Almeida July 19 in Long Island, NY. Card is here.

AMATEUR BOXING:

There was a 28-bout amateur card at Clearfield Aquatic Center on June 30. It was organized by Lights Out Gym's Julian Stevens. Channel 13 did a great story on it that is available here. Winners included Jon Bryant of Lights Out, Shakeem Barnwell and Jay Wright, Foley's gym, and Mateo Holt, of Louie's gym. Speaking of Louie's, the gym is having a fundraiser/car show this Saturday. Details are here.

Siler scores win at PFL MMA tourney

Ogden's Steven Siler, who now fights out of Provo, (seen in a file photo above) scored his first win in a major competition in a while with an exciting, comeback first-round submission of young contender Magomed Idrisov.

It didn't come easy, through. In the Professional Fighters League featherweight bout, Siler (30-17) was losing the striking battle to Idrisov (8-2). A couple of minutes into the round, Siler was floored by a hard shot by his opponent. The Utah fighter, who has competed in Showdown, the UFC, Titan and PFL, probably came within a punch or two of the referee stopping the bout.

But he survived, and got off the ground, shakily resuming action. In the final minute, Siler's 47-bout experience paid when, with Isidrov getting a takedown, Siler skillfully maneuvered his opponent into a triangle choke and expertly tightened it. At that point, Isidrov was finished, with the submission tallied at 4.19 of round one.

Despite dominating most of the first round, Isidrov seemed wary, perhaps with reason given the ending, of engaging his veteran opponent on the ground. On more than one occasion he allowed Siler to get to his feet.

The card, at New York City's Madison Square Garden Hulu Theater, had its early portion (including Siler's win) streamed via PFL's Facebook page. Later bouts were televised on NBCSports cable TV network.

Two recent opponents Siler lost decisions to, Lance Palmer and Andre Harrison, also scored wins on the card. Siler is part of a featherweight PFL competition/tournament that could net the winner $1 million.

You can watch the entire card, including Siler's fight (roughly 45 minutes in), at PFL's Facebook page. Here's a recap from mmafighting webpage.

This was a good win for Steven, and we hope that some of Utah's "legacy media" will note his well-deserved win.

RESULTS FROM THE COMPLEX BOXING CARD

Last Saturday there were several pro bouts at The Complex in Salt Lake City. The card results are at the bottom of this boxrec webpage. Winners included Gabriel Chairez, Eric Wahlen and Jerhed Fenderson.

ETC:

Later this month there will be MMA in Logan on June 23, (Mountain Force MMA) in Salt Lake City on June 29 (SteelFist), and  an amateur boxing card on June 30 in Clearfield (from Lights Out gym). Starting next week, we will begin interviews with participants on these cards. To see a future schedule of state MMA, boxing, kickboxing events, go here.

Also, amateur MMA fighter Destiny McCubbin, who recently won the Utah state flyweight title, will be fighting for a Tuff N Uff belt on June 30 in Nevada. We hope to speak with her prior to the fight, as well.

Alvarez beats Wright in a thriller, amateur boxing, MMA, more

Saturday, April 28 there was an amateur boxing card at Foley's gym in Ogden. A featured bout was an open 3X3 bout between 130 pounders Diego Alvarez, Los Gallitos gym, and Jay Wright of Foldey's. (Above shows Wright (at left) and Alvarez in action.)

In round one, Wright floored Alvarez with a right hand punch. Alvarez, a former national Golden Gloves champ, rebounded by forcing a standing eight count on Wright later in the round. The ebb-and-flow bout continued in round 2 with Alvarez slowly gaining control, earning two standing eight counts on Wright. However, late in the round, Wright brought the crowd to its feet by rallying, driving Alvarez back with a flurry.

The slugfest continued in the final round. Alvarez stunned Wright a barrage of punches, eventually forcing another standing eight count. At this point, Wright's trainer Dave Foley asked the referee to stop the bout. It was a hell of a fight and both Wright and Alvafrez merit respect for their talents and courage.

Other bouts included: Christopher Azcaray, Rodriguez Boxing, defeating Diego Cabrera, Unbreakable; Corbyn Lloyd, Unbreakable, defeating Kolytn Nalder, Rodriguez Boxing; Damon Weiblehouse, KC Boxing, defeating Dylan Bahena, Lights Out Boxing; Maxine Garcia, Unbreakable, defeating Kaydence Armstrong, Rodriguez Boxing; Sergion Sanchez, defeating Saul Gamino, Lights Oout Boxing; Max Ruiz, Foley's gym, defeating Julio Azcaray, Rodriguez Boxing; Nicole Sontange, Rocky Mountain, defeating Vanessa Shelburne, Foley's gym; Jesus Rodriguez, Louie's Boxing, defeating Jose Mata, Los Gallitos; Elias Barta, Rodriguez Boxing, defeating Fabian Barba, All Heart Boxing; Anthony Charlie, Lights Out Boxing, defeating Holden Atwood, Legends Boxing; Pedro Rubles, All Heart Boxing, defeating David Soria, Mori Academy; Tieler Dana, Foley's gym, defeating Emily Cornejo, Bone Crusher; Sami Daybell, Foley's gym, defeating Hope Clements, Rocky Mountain; Alayah Garcia, Los Gallitos, defeating Dulcy Burkman, Rodriguez Boxing; Jolsh Boyer, Cache Valley, defeating Cesar Bustos, All Heart Boxing; and Ramon Lopez, Legends Boxing, defeating Gary Bailey, Factum.

JUNIOR OLYMPICS: This Saturday, May 5, starting at 1 p.m. Junior Olympics amateur boxing tournament action starts at Foley's gym, 375 31st Street, in Ogden.

UTAH VERSUS COLORADO amateur boxing. On June 30, starting at 6 p.m., the Clearfield Aquatic and Fitness Center will host amateur boxing featuring youth boxers from Clearfield's Lights Out Boxing program. Lights Out's John Bryant, a Rocky Mlountain Golden Gloves champ, will be meeting an elite boxer from Colorado, with a host of other Utah versus Colorado bouts.

JIU-JITSU at Proving Grounds Invitational -- Remember that Saturday is brown and purple belt competition, grappling, jiu-jitsu, feature matches and tournaments at Proving Grounds Invitational 4 in Farmington. We interviewed John Valentine last week, who is competing.

RECENT MMA ACTION -- In Idaho Falls, Idaho, pro MMA fighters familiar to Utah cages competed last weekend. Returning Kerry Lattimer defeated Gabe Pelayo by decision and in the promotion's main event, Fabio Serrao stopped Andrew Cruz. In Casper, Wyo., Rowdy Akers was stopped by Houssam El Kasn in a pro bout and local amateur Eric Munoz stopped Cody Ammen. ... Lattimer is already scheduled to fight on Friday in Boise for Front Street Fights against Nathan Stolen. Also on the card is William Dunkle, who has fought in Utah. He meets Joe Boerschic in a pro bout.

Valentine readies for his final pro MMA bout

On Saturday, Sept. 16 in Salt Lake City, two 40-something mixed martial artists will meet in their final pro match. Undefeated JohnValentine, 47, (above) who lives in Las Vegas but has been a fixture in Northern Utah mixed martial arts for a long while not just as a professional athlete but as a an MMA coach, female MMA matchmaker and television cageside commentator. He meets Rowdy Akers, 42, who trains out of One Hit MMA in Layton. It's the co-main event for the SteelFist MMA card at the Riverbend Sports Complex.

We chatted with Valentine, who was given the moniker "The Machine," recently, talking with him about preparations for the bout. (Next week we'll have a chat with Akers.) (The pair are seen below in the past with Valentine, as a commentator with SteelFist, interviewing Akers).

"It's been a challenge, but I've probably trained harder for this fight than other fight," says Valentine, who works full time as an Area Manager in Bio Therapeutics medical industry helping doctors diagnose and treat rare diseases. The medical field is something John knows well as he holds a bachelors degree in science in molecular biology with minor in organic chemistry.

"Contrary to what everyone thinks this fight's not about Rowdy. ... I'm fighting myself," Valentine adds. Pushing himself, trying to be the best he can be, is the goal. That involves dieting, weight lifting, several miles of roadwork a day and long sessions at the gym after work is over. For his final fight he wanted it to be at SteelFist, where he started his pro career.

"(Really), my time is over (in MMA)," he said. His goal is helping his kids, who have their own sports to work hard at. He wants to help them improve. His sons have already competed, and succeeded, at North American Grappling Association (NAGA) wrestling tournaments and in gymnastics and have one at the highest levels his youngest securing the national championship in jujitsu at 6 years old. Their names are JT, Kyle, Cody, and Austin. (In the picture above, from left, Kyle, Cody and JT show wrestling medals. Austin is involved in gymnastics.)

When he looks at his boys, he thinks about why he must give them his attention and support. John grew up in poverty with a 16-year-old single mom who was kicked out of her home when she became pregnant with him. Alone and on their own his mom never quit and worked hard for the family and a stepdad who later entered their life and made it better, and eventually legally adopting John who now carries his last name.

"My parents are Jim Valentine and Kathy Valentine. "My mom was a amazing waitress, my dad a hardworking warehouseman. My mom had me when she was very very young and My step-father at the time gave us hope and love and legally adopted me. Jim a Vietnam veteran, worked two jobs to give us a better life. I only use stepfather in the context of the article as he is the only father that I've ever known and I love him. On September 16 you will feel his influence as When my father first came into my life we would sit alone in a room as a child and I would watch him play 'Simple Man' on the guitar. It was a reminder to chase your dreams but stay true to who you are as a person and live and love in a simple way," Valentine shared.

"That song is what I walk out to before every fight. It reminds me of who I am, where I came from and what I must do as I enter the cage," Valentine said. 

Jim his father (seen with John before a fight above) has always walked behind him when he enters the cage and rarely misses an event, he added and will be there doing the same for this final chapter.

Valentine, a decorated wrestler since age 6, has accomplished a lot. After over 11 years of Trainjng he's a four-stripe brown belt in Brazilian jiu jitsu under renowned world champion and UFC veteran Robert Drysdale, he is a Kru in Muay Thai under Sakasem Kanthawong, of Salt Lake City. He holds an Idaho judo state championship and has earned dozens of grappling medals and title belts. He's a world class competitor, earning a bronze medal this year in jiu jitsu at the Pan American Games and winning major International Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Federation (IBJJF) tournaments such as the Las Vegas Open just a few months back, doing so while competing against opponents that were two weight classes larger. 

While he's retiring he will still be competing in the cage in "Submission Only" grappling events. The next is scheduled for November 11 hosted by UFC Hall of Famer Randy Couture's event to benefit his military charity foundation. Last year John was one of the schedule super fights and won in less than 90 seconds unfortunately sending his opponent to the hospital via an inverted heel hook submission. He was asked back and like last year it is expected it will also be televised on NBC Sports.

But back to the bout against Akers. Drysdale, is a daily influence as chief trainer. "Every day I get a text from him, checking on how I'm doing and he's in an amazing, loyal and dedicated coach to his students and team," He says. Valentine, at 47, is aware of how important training is, of getting his cardio as strong as possible."because I have only had to go into the second round one time in my fights does not mean I don't have good cardio....I train anticipating always a three round battle which allows me to be both patient and explosive when need be." he adds.

And preparing for this fight like many others John (seen above in a previous bout) assembles what he calls a "dream team" of trainers. Others working to get Valentine ready are world and Pan American champ Moises Antonio Lopez whose responsible for developing John's leg lock training. Striking coaches are UFC coach Ken Hahn (responsible for working with the likes of Frank Mir UFC champ) and Kyle Reyes, an MMA standout. On wrestling, Valentine benefits from the expertise of French MMA superstar Bendy Casimir. Also, Ju jitsu ace Chase Shafter and finally Chris Bateman, a fighter from Idaho, and is a valued coach always ready to help, Valentine adds.

The centerpiece and the glue that puts it all together will be none other than Utah resident , Brazilian jujitsu black belt Brandon Guzzo, a friend and coach, who has trained likes of UFC vets Court McGee and Steven Siler, also trains Valentine and will be in his corner. "Brandon helps calm me down. he simplifies things,". "We have been friends for 31 years and competed and grew up together as children. No other coach, friend or man alive knows my motivators, my fears, my demons, and what it takes for me to be the best on fight night and I am honored to have them in my corner that night for my final chapter." Valentine added

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Valentine always gives back to different charities for his fights and events. One of his efforts as the fight approaches is Kimonos forKai, an effort to better understand and prevent teen suicide. John does not make any money in the sale of his T-shirts and all of the money raised goes to the foundation, named after Kai, a victim of suicide, and son to James Wright who is a long time high school friend. Kai was a combat sports athlete, and his dad keeps his memory alive to help others, something that Valentine really admires.

"He was an amazing kid and Jiu Jitsu practitioner. Also, (please contact) his father and my friend, James Wright, to learn how to help and he can give you talking points for you to discuss with your children," Valentine added. (Photo above shows Kai and his father James Wright.)

Another pre-fight effort initiated by Valentine is raising money to help persons who can't afford to attend the fights be able to be there. To date a lot was raised and many people who usually couldn't afford the fights will be there on Sept. 16 thanks to the donations. He mentions his friend Christine Dennis, a partner in Tapp Fitness, as one of the valued sponsors.

It's a dual retirement fight for Valentine and Akers. For Valentine, he'll carry on in grappling and jiu jitsu, training with his sons in the endeavors they choose to pursue, and like any proud parent, getting the most satisfaction from their achievements.

As John notes, watching them succeed reminds him of two hard-working role models, a mom and dad who worked hard to make sure a young boy was able to achieve his dreams and taught him always to Believe and that I could accomplish anything. “It’s time for me to step away and help make them the best versions of themselves as athletes and young men." (Photo below shows Valentine (at right) forcing a tap out in a recent bout.)

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More events: Remember that Louie's Boxing Gym Fundraiser is Sept. 10 at Jordan Park (1060 S. 900 West, SW Pavilion) in Salt Lake City from noon to 5 p.m. From 1 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. boxing champ Jose Haro will meet and greet fans.

Also, on Saturday, Sept. 9 Lights Out Boxing gym in Clearfield will have a yard sale and plate fundraiser from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 1548E 925 South in Clearfield. It's an effort to raise funds prior to the gym's planned move to the Clearfield Aquatic Center. There will also be a raffle ($5) for a bounce house ticket.

Finally, local MMA pro Mike Jones' scheduled bout with LFA promotions this month is off as his opponent pulled out.

SteelFist 51 card Friday night, Horn card in Ogden next month

Tomorrow night is SteelFist 51 in Salt Lake City. It starts at 7 pm at Riverbend Sports and Event Center. Main bouts are listed above in the poster. We have interviewed both AJ Garcia and Troy Dennison. The entire card is listed here. Your blogger would love to be there but he works on Friday nights. We will be keeping an eye on the results and share them. 

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Some news on boxer Jose Haro's recent opponent, Daniel Franco. By the way, although he faces many challenges, Franco, has recovered well from an injury that was life threatening after his loss to Haro. You can read his dad's latest post here. (There is still opportunity to donate to help Franco)

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Jeremy Horn's Elite Fight Night will have an MMA card on Friday, Aug. 11 at the Weber County Fairgrounds. We hope to have a photographer there. Thomas Hughes, a member of the USA kickboxing team, will be fighting his first pro MMA bout. Hughes is undefeated in MMA. Also fighting will be Top of Utah amateur 205 pounder Eric Munoz. He says it will be his final MMA bout. We hope to interview both Hughes and Munoz over the next couple of weeks. Also, in September SteelFist has a Saturday card on the 16th that matches John Valentine against Rowdy Akers, a farewell bout for both. Here's a look at upcoming cards via the state's athletic commission.

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I chatted with Julian Stevens of Lights Out gym in Clearfield and he provided an update on how some of the boxers who train there did at the Junior Nationals Golden Gloves in Mesquite last week. 

"James Cox, 65 pounds, Dylan Bahena, 65 pounds, Oxmanny Sanchez, 75 pounds, all fought great for only training for six to eight months. They all lost but learned a great deal at the tournament. Preston Tiffany won his first fight and fought Randy Canaday, whom he beat at the national Junior Olympic finals to win the tournament. (He) lost a close decision," Stevens said.

More on SteelFist card, local pros plan bouts, amateur boxing

SteelFist has announced several more bouts for its July 28 card in SLC. They include Ranu Meah versus Kent Mafelio, Lauren Chidester versus Cat Myers, Lauren Su'a versus Curt Leifson, Ului Pupuno versus Joshua Young Tauteoli, Brian Johns versus Bobby Simpson, Cory Rose versus Matt Unruh, Jordan Taylor versus Justin Vialpando, Marco Sanchez versus Jon Wixom, and Hector Lopez versus AJ Palante.

The entire card, as we know presently, is here.

Some local fighters have fights scheduled, with more details to come. John Valentine, who lives in Las Vegas but still is well involved in MMA locally, says he has another pro fight in the works. So does One Hit MMA pro Rowdy Akers, set to fight in September. Among amateurs, Bryce Edminister (The Garage), will be parft of the Front Street Fights card in Boise on Aug. 18. And kickboxer Thomas Hughes, who has competed internationally as an amateur, will be part of the Horn's Elite card in Ogden next month.

The Junior Golden Gloves Nationals are later this month in Mesquite. Participants from Lights Out Boxing include Ozmanny Sanchez, 70, James Cox, 65, and Dylan Bahena, 60. From All Heart Boxing Adriano Bdenn (119) and Mehki Benn (106) will be there. Also, competing will be Preston Tiffany, 95. Tiffany, a former Junior Olympics national champ, is well after rehabbing from some injuries.

Speaking of the Junior Olympics, Aaron Garcia, a Payson, Utah amateur boxer, competed recently in the nationals. Univision 32 produced this great feature on the successful young boxer.

SLC fights: Chairez and Brown draw, Aguirre stops Carroll

Here are results from the pro/am boxing card last night at The Complex in Salt Lake City. I want to thank Dave Foley, Julian Stevens and Jason DeCarlo for keeping me informed, as I had to work last night. Also thanks to Charles Presnell for some background information.

In the main event, for the state middleweight championship, Christian Aguirre remained undefeated with a KO in the second round over Factum gym's Tim Carroll. Congrats to Aguirre and we wish future success for Carroll, who is one of the great guys in Utah boxing.

In the co-main, undefeated SLC boxer Ignacio Chairez was held to a draw by undefeated Las Vegas boxer Anthony Brown over four rounds. This was a competitive, well-matched bout, I heard. Brown, incidentally, fought in a Golden Gloves tournament in SLC in 2013. It'd be nice to see both rematched over six rounds soon.

In a third pro bout, Clay Collard defeated Jamey Swanson.

In amateur bouts:

Ozmanny Sanchez (Lights Out) defeated Vinnie Apodaca (Foleys)

Lalo Zamora (Fullmers) defeated Luis Cornejo (Foleys)

Rene Mendoza (Louie's) defeated Matt Searl (Fullmers)

Jordan Jones (Louie's) defeated Jesse Stoneman (Orem)

Amateur boxing results, MMA pros Chandler and Castillo fights

Above is a photo of fighters, trainers and supporters at last night's New Beginnings amateur boxing card at the Legacy Events Center in Farmington. The card was sponsored by All Heart and Lights Out boxing gyms.

Below is the results of the card. I was going to type them in then realized, light bulb, that I could post the photo. The winners are circled. The last bout, the main event, won by Santana DeCarlo of All Heart, was voted Fight of the Night.

NOW, SOME MMA news ...

At the Fierce Fighting Championship card in Price last night, 155 pounder MMA pro Jordan Chandler of Ogden, who trains at One Hit MMA in Layton, won his final pro bout, stopping previously undefeated Cy Nelson late in round one.

Here's a recap from Jeffrey "Dutch" Dutcher, posted on his Fighting Out of Utah MMA Facebook page: "Nelson was winning the round till Chandler landed a mean right that dropped Nelson, then followed him to the ground to finish it."

In the main bout, 170 pounder Mike Jones stopped Ben Robinson in round one. All the result are at Dutcher's Facebook page.

And Saturday night in Council Bluffs, Iowa, veteran MMA pro David Castillo, who runs The Garage MMA gym in Layton, lost a three round decision to Dakota Cochrane. The bout is scheduled to be televised delayed on UFC Fight Pass. Here's Castillo's assessment last night via social media: "Lost a decision. Good fight. No quit. Hats off to Dakota. He earned it. No regrets."

Chan, Welk talk before SteelFist MMA clash, plus more

UPDATE ON DAVID CASTILLO MMA BOUT SATURDAY: David Castillo, who runs The Garage MMA gym, fights Saturday in Council Bluffs, Iowa, meeting another veteran, Dakota Cochrane. Card is here; good luck David. ... Today we are chatting with the two MMA professionals meeting in the co-main even on June 23 in SLC at the SteelFist card. Both were successful local amateurs. Miles Welk, of The Garage MMA, is 1-0 and Steve Chan, of Victory MMA, is making his pro debut. This is a tough match for novice pros but even a loss is better than five wins over outmatched competitors. The whole card is here.

So, here we go with the interview:

1) Tell me a little about yourself. What got you interested in MMA, who are some MMA athletes you admire?
 
CHAN (Seen below) When I was younger my dad would teach me karate and Kung Fu, We would watch a lot of martial arts movies like Jackie Chan and Jet Li, So I've always been interested in combat. When I got a little older I started watching shows like Dragon Ball Z and Power Rangers and started reading X-men comics, So I got really into the whole superhero/combat/ fighting atmosphere. Later I found an interest in boxing and then discovered MMA one night flipping through the channels. It was Ben Henderson fighting and I was immediately hooked. I started watching the local late-night MMA shows and was very impressed with the sport: the grappling, striking, everything. I continued boxing and later decided to try Muay Thai and my obsession just grew from there. I admire Anderson Silva because of his unorthodox style, it is really exciting to watch. I also admire Zach Zane, his heart, passion and aggressiveness for the sport taught me that you don't have to walk around like a tough guy to earn respect outside of the cage. Chan Sung Jung, Jose Aldo, Demetrious Johnson are also fighters that I enjoy watching. 

WELK (Seen below with trainer David Castillo): I'm 27. I wrestled for a while and after school I missed wrestling and that type of workout and competing. I admire my coach David Castillo and my stand-in big brother Lucus Montoya, Chris Weidman, George St. Pierre Matt Hughes and Jeremy Horn are fighters I admire.

2) Where are you training for the bout. Who are your coaches? What other fighters are training, or sparring with you?

WELK: I'm full time at The Garage in Layton, Utah. My coaches are David Castillo, Jason Tafoya, Anthony Lobato. I have a solid group of teammates who I would be nothing without. (They include) Bryce Edminister, Anthony Miller, Bobby King, Nathan Owens, Brandon Rease.

CHAN: I am training at Victory MMA, where we have amazing coaches that make sure we are prepared for war. My coaches are: Jake Paul, Kam Tuller, James Foster, Matt Raines and Kyle Herrera Some of my teammates I am working with are: Brenda Enriquez, Clay Abrams, Jayden and Jordan Marshall, Kelleck Diamond, Drew, Erick, Dan, Joshua Tauteoli, Ethan Shepherd, Pedro and a handful of other guys and girls.

3) What are your strengths, what are your opponent’s strengths and what’s your strategy to come out on top?

CHAN: I believe I am a well-rounded fighter and I am looking to come away with the win wherever the fight goes. My opponent likes to wrestle, and I like to do all of it, wrestling included. 

WELK: My opponent is a tough guy with a deep gas tank I know he's training hard. He has good hands and decent ground awareness from the video I've watched. I'm just working hard to get better everywhere so I'm comfortable no matter where the fight goes.

4) Where do you hope to be in your career a year from now?

WELK: In a year I would like to be 4-0 maybe 5-0 with a local title.

CHAN: A year from now I will be an even better fighter, with much sharper tools and farther in my journey to become the best mixed martial artist I can be.

We wish the best to both Welk and Chan, two great competitors with strong futures in the sport.

SOME MORE NEWS:

On Saturday, there is amateur boxing at the Legacy Events Center in Farmington. The card is sponsored by All Heart and Lights Out gym. We hope to have results and perhaps photos to share on the blog.

Also on Saturday is Fierce Fighting Championship MMA card in Price. Of particular interest is the Jordan Chandler versus Cy Nelson fight. It's likely the last fight for Ogden's Chandler as he moves with his wife to Arizona to continue his education.

June 9 there is a pro/am boxing card at The Complex in SLC. Undefeated local pros Ignacio Chairez and Larry Gomez are in separate bouts and Utahns Tim Carroll and Christian Aguirre fight for the state middleweight title. Chairez, by the way, was noted as one of the top 12 prospects in boxing by Inside Boxing.

Next week we'll have interviews with Carroll and One Hit MMA's LJ Schulz as he prepares for his main-bout fight at SteelFist on June 23.

Finally, remember that Utahn Jose Haro is fighting for a national featherweight title on June 10 in Sloan, Iowa, against Daniel Franco, and the fight will be televised on the CBS Sports Network.

Read our interviews with amateurs Ben Guymon and Kaden Weston, who are fighting on the SteelFist card,

Results from Fractured Gym's Fists of Fury

Quickly, here are some results from last night's amateur boxing card in Tremonton, Fists of Fury, sponsored by Fractured Gym: (If any more results, and any corrections needed, let me know)

Main: Jon Bryant (Lights Out) decisioned Austyn Bronco (Fort Hall) 155

Jordan Jones (Louies) decisioned Todd Pacheco (Foleys) 155

Jonathan Montelongo (Reyes) decisioned Jesus Saldana (All Heart) 125

Jonny Chavez (Fractured) defeated Cole Kunzler (Foleys) 115

Ike Makinnon  (KC Boxing) decisioned Dylan Bahena (Lights Out) 65

Saul Gamino (Fractured) decisioned Vinnie Apodaca (Foleys) 85

Christian Zavala (Unbreakable) defeated Hector San Juan (Reyes) 135

Diego Liedecker (Unbreakable) defeated James Cox (Lights Out) 65

Aaron Garcia (Unbreakable) defeated David Satter (Three Brothers) 80

Emilio Lopez (Sergeant Boxing) defeated Orland Carassco (KC Boxing) 105

Llad Holman (Unbreakable) decisioned Adrian Gamino (Fractured) 80

Natawnie Hernandez (Alpha Boxing) defeated Cynthia Rivas (Louies) 105

Marco Murillo (Reyes) defeated Kaleb Cutler (Three Brothers) 115

Giovanni Gonzales (Lights Out) defeated Valentene Sanchez (Unbreakable) 65

Francisco Colohua (SSLC PAL) defeated Kambon Iverson (Three Brothers) 125

Jorge Sanchez (Unbreakable) defeated Santana DeCarlo (All Heart) 135. This bout was voted Fight of the Night.

Elias Rivas (Sergeant Boxing) defeated Noah Liedecker (Unbreakable) 65

Isaac Lopez (Alpha Boxing) defeated Adriano Benn (All Heart) 125

Austin Garcia (Unbreakable) defeated Damin Weiblehous (KC Boxing) 55

Jose Menchaca (Sergeant Boxing) defeated Jesus Delgado (SSLC PAL) 85

Sergio Sanchez (Unbreakable) defeated Ozmanny Sanchez (Lights Out) 75

Refugio Arrellano (Colorado) defeated Jesse Brown (All Heart) 132

SteelFist MMA card, amateur boxing on Saturday, April 18

Above are the two events this weekend that Utah Fight Game will be covering on Saturday. We'll have a photographer at Foley's gym in Ogden, 375 31st St., at 7 pm for amateur boxing. Tickets are $12, $6 for younger kids.

At the Riverbend Sports Complex in Salt Lake City, 1085 Winding River Code W, we'll be there at 6 p.m. for the SteelFist card (here). Ticket info is at steelfistfightnight.com or 801-637-7063. The main bout matches 145 pound SteelFist champ Jon Neal (One Hit MMA) of Ogden defending his title against Skyler Frazier (Absolute MMA). Other pro bouts include Ogden's Jordan Chandler (One Hit MMA) meeting Idaho veteran Kerry Lattimer and debut pro, from Foley's gym, AJ Garcia, versus One Hit MMA's Rowdy Akers.

-- Let's start with some boxing results from the amateur card at Legends in Sandy on April 11. They are: Yahir Estrada defeating Javier Gamma; Adriano Benn (All Heart) defeating Mateo Holt; Kai Chiang defeated Gary Bailey; Rene Mendoza defeated Jesus Saldana (All Heart); John Gonzalez defeated Andy Jensen (Foleys); Jesus Garcia defeated Dorian Spencer; Jordan Argyle defeated Alex Treadway (Foleys); and Ramon Lopez defeated Jon Bryant (Lights Out) in a surprise. I watched that bout via FB and Lopez used effective aggression to neutralize Bryant's outside boxing game. After the spring/summer tournament season finishes, this would make a good rematch.

In the pro ranks, Jose Haro is scheduled to fight in Tijuana, Mexico, at the end of the month. If we find out more we'll publish it at the blog. FKP Boxing, which just had a card at Riverbend, plans another pro/am card in May, I've been told.

BACK TO MMA

In previous posts, I have interviewed four fighters, Chandler, Lattimer, Garcia and Akers. We made an effort to get interviews with Neal and Frazier but it just didn't happen. My two cents on the main event is that Neal certainly merits being the favorite. He's yet to lose and he's passed his three toughest tests, wins over Scottie Casey, Jordan Clements and Tanner Cowan, well. Since after his pro debut, a decision win, no one has taken Neal into round three.

Having said that, I'm impressed with Frazier's talents as well, particularly his recuperative powers during fights, finding that second or third wind when necessary. Also, he learns from mistakes and despite some losses has returned a better fighter. As mentioned, Neal is my tabbed favorite but if Frazier can take this past round two and into areas that Neal is not familiar with, it may get more interesting. In any event, can't wait for this bout as well as the whole card. Despite peripheral neuropathy which keeps me home too often, I'm trekking to this card.

SOME MORE MMA NEWS: Davis County professional MMA fighter Sean Powers has signed a contract with Toronto-based Mickey Meyer Management Group. ... Friday, April 21, is a FITCON MMA card in SLC. On April 22 there's a kickboxing card scheduled. We did an interview with MMA amateur Eric Munoz, of Foley's gym recently, who will fight on April 21. Also scheduled to fight is undefeated female amateur Jessica Kruger. More info and the entire card is here. ... Buffy Ogden, a female MMA amateur who has been off a couple of years, announced on social media she may be back in the cage soon. Details will be announced after contracts are set. ... Also on social media, local amateur Brandon Rease (The Garage) said he may fight in Nevada soon.

Just remembered, go to the Utah Fighter MMA podcast of April 9 and hosts Eric Tillotson and Reed Romney analyze all three MMA cards, SteelFist, FitCon and South Valley Slam.

ONE MORE THING: We recently interviewed 46 year old MMA pro John Valentine, who is fighting on the May 13 South Valley Slam card in Hurricane, Utah. John's opponent has switched; he'll be fighting 170-pounder Michael Dillard. John generally fights at a lighter weight. Dillard has a win over Koji Lehman and a loss to Ogden MMA pro Justin Roberts among his bouts.

I chatted with John about the opponent change: "Hey Doug it's interesting I'm fighting a really big guy Mike Dillard. He's been around for a while; his record's about mixed but he's extremely big. I think he's 6 foot 1 inch, walks at 193 pounds it's gonna make for an interesting fight because I know he's going to lose some weight to get down to 170. I walk at 155 roughly but on fight night he's probably gonna have me by 30 pounds so I have to be very tight on my game strategy. I think I got this ... it's gonna be an exciting match up and probably will make for an exciting fight. There's already a lot of buzz and I sold a lot of tickets. People are more curious on whether not a little person can be the big person."

As the South Valley Slams draws nearer Utah Fight Game blog will have interviews with MMA pros Daniel Stratton and James Russell Francis, who are fighting each other on the card, and amateur Bryce Edminister, who will be meeting Nick Estrada on the card. ... Our periodic look a the state athletic commission upcoming fight events.

West defeated in Washington bout; amateurs tussle in Brigham

Davis County pro boxer Jesse West headlined a card in Lacy, Wash., last night. The former amateur champ, 8-2, lost to another former amateur champ, Marquice Weston, 8-1-1. It was the main event bout.

According to PNW Pro Boxing, the promoter, the bout was stopped late in the fourth round due to a "fighter retirement." If we find out more, we'll add it here.

AMATEURS FIGHT IN BRIGHAM CITY

Last night Fractured gym sponsored an amateur card in Brigham City. Here are a partial list of results:

Adrianno Benn, of All Heart Boxing in Ogden, defeated Mateo Holt, 125 pounds.

From Lights Out Boxing in Clearfield:

John Daniells, 170 pounds, lost his bout, named fight of the night;

Preston Tiffany, 90 pounds, lost a decision to Tanner Gurlue;

Chris France, 135 pounds, was victorious

Ozmanny Sanchez, 75 pounds, was a winner;

and Jon Bryant, 152 pounds, won an amateur title belt.

From Foley's gym:

Alex Treadway, heavyweight, was a winner;

and Carson Matthews, 95 pounds won a decision.

If we get more results, we'll add them.

Boxer Jesse West has important bout Saturday in Washington

Davis County cruiserweight boxer Jesse West has what is arguably his most important fight as a professional when he travels to Lacey Wash. Saturday to meet Marquice Weston. PNW Professional Boxing is the promoter.

While interest in the main event bout is still contained to the western United States both fighters are considered top prospects and the winner will be in a position to entertain more lucrative bouts. West, 8-1, is on a several-bout win streak after losing a split decision in California to a heavyweight a few years ago. He has since decided to fight as a cruiserweight.

Weston, 7-1-1, suffered a majority decision loss in his last bout when he also traveled away from home base to the eastern United States. West will have the task of taking a win in an opponent's home base.

I chatted with West briefly earlier this week. "Day four of the training camp has been OK. Yes, I mean day four," he said laughing. "They gave us a 10-day notice," which is tough, he added. (Here's a photo of West stopping Nick Rossborough in a recent bout, courtesy of Justin Hughes)

Both West and Weston have a common opponent, Price, Utah's David Sanchez (4-2). West stopped Sanchez in Utah, Weston decisioned Sanchez in Washington. Weston also recently stopped Utah boxer/MMA professional Mike Crisman. West and Weston had successful amateur careers. West, fighting as a heavyweight, was the Rocky Mountain Golden Gloves champion.

Earlier in his career, West had relied on his punching power to win bouts. In his most recent bout against previously undefeated Anthony Johnson, he showed strong boxing and defensive skills in earning a decision.

MORE AMATEURS FIGHTING IN BRIGHAM CITY

I talked to a couple of Northern Utah gyms who provided me the names of fighters who will be competing in Brigham City on Saturday:

"Jon Bryant, 152 pounds,  is fighting for a belt. John Daniels, 170 pounds, is fighting his first bout. (Also fighting are) Preston Tiffany, 90 pounds, Chris France, 135 pounds, and Ozmanny Sanchez, 70 pounds," Julian Stevens, of Lights Out gym in Clearfield, said.

"(We) have McKayla Gabaldan, 145 pounds, Kamryn Santiago, 141 pounds, and Santana DeCarlo, 125 pounds, fighting this weekend in Brigham City," Jason DeCarlo of All Heart Boxing in Ogden said.

SOME MMA NEWS

SteelFist's next MMA card is set for April 15. There are three pro bouts that I consider must-see for MMA fans. They are Jon Neal defending his 145-pound pro belt against Skyler Frazier, 155-pounder Jordan Chandler and Kerry Lattimer tussling, and 145-pounders AJ Garcia and Rowdy Akers meeting in a rematch from their amateur days.

We'll be trying to get interviews will all six of these fighters in the weeks ahead.

MMA pro Ed Whitmore readies for SteelFist title bout

Ed Whitmore, an 185-pound MMA pro with an 11-5 record, from Provo ((see above), has enjoyed success with Team Unbreakable. In fact, most of his recent bouts have been for regional titles, including SteelFist and The Clash,

He's part of SteelFist promotion's Feb. 18 card at the Legacy Events Center in Farmington, where he'll fight another Utahn, Carl Dieckmann, for the SteelFist 185-pound pro title. It's an intriguing match. Dieckmann, of Team Extreme, 11-2, is returning after a three-year absence. Whitmore has wins over Cody Udy, Cisco Alcantara and Mike Crisman. Dieckmann has wins over Alcantara, Crisman and Shawn Conroy.

I chatted with Whitmore as he prepares for the five-round bout:

On training: Whitmore: My training for this bout is about the same as always. It includes several sparring sessions and several grappling session per week, along with lots and lots of cardio conditioning. 

On Carl Dieckmann: Whitmore: I don't know very much about my opponent's fighting style. I heard that he got hurt somehow and wasn't expected to return to MMA. Having over two years off might be a good thing for him or it might be a disadvantage. It's hard to say. 

On his fight style: Whitmore: I define my fight style as Mixed Martial Arts. You have to be good at everything in this sport and so that's what I focus on: everything. I hate watching boring fights and I hate being a part of boring fights even more. I'm not here to just win; I'm here to bust people up and make them never want to fight me again. I'm motivated to train hard for two reasons: hurting my opponent and giving a good show. I've always been into fighting, often unsanctioned. I grew up moving around a lot so there were always new people to throw down with. When I was 21 I discovered an MMA gym close to me and started training there. That was almost 8 years ago now. I see myself as having the discipline and skill of an athlete mixed with the aggression and toughness of a brawler. 

On long-term goals in MMA: Whitmore: My long term goals are to get to the highest level that I can. I'm here to fight because I love it and I don't anticipate stopping anytime soon. I haven't even reached my physical prime yet!

"Fighters that I admire are guys who put it all on the line, fighting with relentless fury. I like guys like Robbie Lawler, Diego Sanchez, Dan Henerson, and Cody Garbrandt.

Thanks a lot for the interview Ed, and we wish you the best on the 18th. It will be a good matchup. Dieckmann is a strong opponent; kudos to SteelFist for the match. More info on card here.

SOME BOXING NEWS

Chatted with Julian Stevens of Lights Out gym in Clearfield. He had a couple of amateur boxers compete on a card in Idaho last weekend. Here's his report:

STEVENS: "Ozmanny Sanchez, 9 years old, fought Ty Harris from Pocatello 11 years old. (He) lost a close decision in his first fight but improved every round. Destiny McCubbin (also an amateur MMA fighter) won against Hailey Russel, out of Mori Academy. She looked phenomenal. We couldn't get our elite fighters matched but John Daniels, Josh Morales, Chris France and Jon Bryant should all be fighting on the 25th in Brigham City."

FINAL BLURBS

Professional boxer from Logan, Christian Nava, says he's likely to be in the ring again soon, perhaps in March. ... MMA professional from Ogden Jordan Chandler will be fighting on the SteelFist April card. Opponent is yet to be named. ... Pro boxer Jose Haro of West Jordan says training is going well as he rehabs from a foot injury. ... Also, please spare some thoughts and prayers for the aforementioned pro boxer Josh Morales, who was seriously ill earlier this week.